ITorrent App Down: AltStore PAL Issues
- Apple has blocked the distribution of the iTorrent app via choice iOS app stores in the European Union, raising questions about the implementation of the Digital Markets Act...
- Following the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on March 7,2024,Apple was required to allow alternative iOS app stores within the European Union.Apple adopted a notarization model...
- On July 24, 2024, users began reporting that iTorrent, a BitTorrent client, was no longer available for download through AltStore PAL, a popular alternative app store.The developer of...
Apple Revokes Distribution Rights for iTorrent in the EU
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Apple has blocked the distribution of the iTorrent app via choice iOS app stores in the European Union, raising questions about the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
What Happened?
Following the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) on March 7,2024,Apple was required to allow alternative iOS app stores within the European Union.Apple adopted a notarization model similar to that used for macOS applications. This system allows apps to be distributed outside the official App Store, but Apple retains the ability to revoke notarization, effectively blocking the app’s distribution and use, even for existing users.
On July 24, 2024, users began reporting that iTorrent, a BitTorrent client, was no longer available for download through AltStore PAL, a popular alternative app store.The developer of iTorrent initially suspected an issue wiht AltStore PAL itself, but quickly discovered that Apple had revoked the app’s distribution rights.
Developer’s Account
The iTorrent developer stated that Apple removed Alternative Distribution functionality from their Developer Portal without any prior notification. Thay were unable to add AltStore PAL to the list of authorized distribution channels. According to a statement posted on iTorrent’s GitHub page, the developer contacted Apple Support for an explanation but received limited information.
“Apple removed Alternative Distribution functionality from iTorrent’s Developer Portal without any warning, I have no option to add AltStore to distributions list at that moment. I contacted Apple Support for explanation, temporarily iTorrent removed from AltStore until issue with Apple will be solved.”
As of July 25, 2024, iTorrent remains unavailable through AltStore PAL, and the developer is actively working to resolve the issue with Apple.
The Digital Markets Act and Apple
The Digital Markets Act (DMA), enacted by the European Union in November 2022 and taking full effect in March 2024, aims to curb the power of large tech companies designated as “gatekeepers.” These gatekeepers, including Apple, are required to allow users more choice and interoperability.Specifically, the DMA mandates that Apple allow developers to distribute apps outside of the app Store.
Apple’s chosen method of compliance – the notarization system – has drawn criticism. While it allows for alternative app stores, it also grants Apple significant control over which apps can be distributed, potentially undermining the DMA’s intent. the iTorrent case illustrates this concern, as Apple’s revocation of distribution rights effectively removed the app from a legitimate alternative channel.
Implications and Potential Concerns
The revocation of iTorrent’s distribution rights raises several concerns:
- App Store control: It demonstrates Apple’s continued ability to exert control over app distribution, even within the framework of the DMA.
- Openness: The lack of clear communication from Apple regarding the revocation is problematic. The developer was left “in the dark” regarding the reason for the action.
- Potential for Abuse: Critics argue that the notar